Seal the deal

Bathroom sealant: The DIYer’s guide

If you’re unsure about which bathroom sealant to use or how to apply it, we have just what you need. Gain some instant confidence when you read our short guide.

What type of bathroom sealant do I need?

Bathroom sealant is essential, not only for a clean, finished look around tubs, sinks, and other fixtures, but also to keep water out of cracks and crevices where it can cause damage. What kind of bathroom sealant is best?

For most applications, water and moisture protection is very important, so it’s hard to beat silicone. Bathroom silicone adheres well to tile, metal, porcelain, and other common surfaces. It remains flexible and is highly water resistant. Bathroom silicone sealant also comes in clear and various other colours to match the surrounding materials.

Applying bathroom silicone: Step by step

Once you have chosen and purchased your bathroom silicone sealant, follow these steps for a professional application.

  1. Wipe down the area to be sealed with a damp cloth. Use mineral spirits if there is any leftover residue from the old sealer.
  2. Place the sealant into the caulk gun and cut the end at a 45° angle, using a utility knife.
  3. Squeeze the trigger and move evenly along the seam, laying down a uniform bead. There should not be any gaps or thin spots along the length of it.
  4. Using your finger or a caulking tool (recommended), smooth out the bead of sealant and distribute it into the surrounding material.
  5. Clean up tools, hands, and any drips or spills immediately.

Getting silicone off of your hands can be a challenge, so here are a few tips. First, wear nitrile or other protective gloves while working to avoid the problem in the first place. If you do get silicone on your fingers, try these methods:

  • If the sealant is still moist, rub vigorously with a paper towel. The abrasive nature of the towel will often remove it. Then wash with soap and water.
  • A wet abrasive cloth will often remove dried bathroom silicone from skin.
  • Try a grease removing hand cleaner if needed.
  • An oil-based spray lubricant also works well to remove bathroom sealant.

How to select the best bathroom sealant

For quick fixes and smaller jobs, try Loctite Clear Silicone Sealant. No need to get out the caulk gun: this multipurpose adhesive sealant comes in an easy-to-use squeeze tube. It creates a waterproof protective seal and is great for metal, glass, rubber, porcelain, and tiled surfaces. In short: an ideal bathroom silicone sealant.

If you want an extremely easy solution for re-sealing your bathroom fixtures, we have good news: now you can make your sink or bathtub look like new without removing the old sealant. Just use Loctite ReNew. This revolutionary product is a silicone-based bathroom sealer that is designed to go over old finishes, even cracked and yellowed sealant. Simply clean the old surface and allow it to dry. Use a mould cleaning agent if any mould is present. Next, apply ReNew right over top. The special auto-smoothing applicator makes it easy to deliver a straight, even bead. Allow it to dry for about 6 hours. It is mould-resistant and highly durable for years of use.